Symbols are significant because they signify something. What is the most prominent symbol of the Christian faith? The Ichthus or fish symbol is prominent in early Christian art. In the catacombs, where early Christians were buried, we also see ships, anchors, palm branches, and the vine and grape clusters. Some of these are represented in our stained glass at Tallowood.
More recently, the cross seems to be the primary symbol of the Christian faith. In fact, I have a cross engraved in my wedding ring. My best man, Wayne Gray had one engraved in his ring and so I chose to do so also. Most days, honestly, I don’t think about the cross on my ring. I put it on as a reminder of our 39-year marriage. But I looked at it today as I read Paul’s words.
Paul writes about the cross no less than three times in his letter to the Galatians. For Paul, the cross was not only a symbol of Christ’s death but a way of life for his followers. In Paul’s theology, Jesus does not have to do all the dying while Christians sing about the cross. The Apostle believed he had been crucified with Christ and raised to life. Jesus’ death becomes the pattern for our lives as we daily deny ourselves, take up the cross, and follow Jesus.
Just as our worship center, and former worship center are shaped like a cross, so are the lives of Jesus’ followers. Years ago I heard a pastor say that Jesus was not headed to the Jerusalem Hilton. Instead, he was going to the city to die. He invited his disciples to deny themselves and take up their crosses. Tozer said being crucified with Christ means at least three things: “We are facing one direction, we are not looking back, and we no longer have any plans of our own.”
